Reports: Barcelona plot surprise move for Manchester United star

What’s the story?

Barcelona have been enjoying a great start to the season but Ernesto Valverde is still not happy the squad he has. The manager has asked the club to sign a midfielder and has specifically asked for Manchester United's Ander Herrera.

The Catalan side are now working on a deal with United according to reports in Daily Star. The report states that Valverde see's the Spaniard as the replacement for Andreas Iniesta.

In case you didn’t know...

Herrera's contract at Old Trafford expires next summer but he still has a 12-month extension clause in it. However, the Red Devils want to tie him down to a new contract but the talks have stalled according to reports.

Valverde and Herrera have worked together at Athletic Bilbao and the manager hopes to work with him once again. He did not want to let the midfielder leave for Old Trafford but United activated his release clause and the Spaniard forced the move.

The heart of the matter

Herrera has not been a regular in the United XI this season as Mourinho has put his trust in Nemanja Matic. The Serbian has been performing very well so far this season and has given Herrera no chance of reclaiming his place.

Valverde wants to take advantage of this situation and lure him to Camp Nou. The Barcelona manager is keen on signing a midfielder and has set his sights on the United star.

What’s next?

Manchester United expect him to sign a new contract by December but are bracing themselves for a bid from Barcelona. The Devils know that the midfielder wants to return to Spain despite enjoying his time in the Premier League.

Valverde hopes to lure him by handing him the starting role ahead of Andre Gomes.

Author’s Take

Herrera would be a good fit for Barcelona but it is difficult to see him moving to Camp Nou in January. The player is loving it at United and has said that he's ready to fight for his place.